why do old people shake
Andrew Henderson
Updated on July 04, 2026
Causes of Tremors in the Elderly
For example, tremors can result from multiple sclerosis, stroke, liver failure, kidney failure, PTSD, alcohol abuse, hyperthyroidism, depression, Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury, and others.
What is it called when an old person shakes?
Essential tremor (ET) is a neurological disorder that causes your hands, head, trunk, voice or legs to shake rhythmically. It is often confused with Parkinson’s disease. Essential tremor is the most common trembling disorder.
What is the problem of trembling of limbs in old age?
A Parkinsonian tremor is usually a resting tremor that’s often the first sign of Parkinson’s disease. It’s caused by damage to parts of the brain that control movement. The onset is usually after age 60. It begins in one limb or on one side of the body and then progresses to the other side.
Are tremors normal in elderly?
Isolated tremor in the elderly is commonly diagnosed as essential tremor (ET). The prevalence of tremor increases steeply with increasing age, whereas hereditary tremor is becoming less common. Moreover, late-manifesting tremor seems to be associated with dementia and earlier mortality.
Can low blood pressure cause shaking?
These symptoms could be caused by many medical conditions, deficits in circulation, neurologic disorders, and reactions to medication. If you are concerned about the severity or duration of your symptoms, then you should contact your doctor.
What does it mean when your body shakes and you feel weak?
If you suddenly feel weak, shaky, or lightheaded—or if you even faint—you could be experiencing hypoglycemia. A headache that comes on quickly, weakness or tremor in your arms or legs, and a slight trembling of your body are also signs that your blood sugar is too low.
What causes trembling?
Essential tremor is a nervous system (neurological) disorder that causes involuntary and rhythmic shaking. It can affect almost any part of your body, but the trembling occurs most often in your hands — especially when you do simple tasks, such as drinking from a glass or tying shoelaces.
What can cause shakiness?
The following factors can cause shaky hands:
Lack of sleep. When you do not get enough sleep, this may trigger neurological reflexes that cause shakiness.Too much caffeine. Caffeine stimulates your body, causing your muscles to move out of sequence.Low blood sugar. Anxiety. Some medications. Essential tremor.